Disgruntled Son Arrested for Mother’s Fatal Stabbing in Queens

A 26-year-old man faces charges after allegedly killing his mother, a retired corrections officer, in their Queens home, according to law enforcement and family members.

The NYPD confirmed on Tuesday that Armel Crawford was apprehended for fatally stabbing 61-year-old Joanne Crawford at her residence on Nameoke Avenue in Far Rockaway.

Joanne was discovered with multiple stab wounds around 10:40 a.m. and was declared dead at the scene, law enforcement reported.

Later that evening, Armel was handcuffed and charged with murder and weapons possession, police stated.

Barry Crawford, Joanne’s cousin, shared with reporters that Armel had a tumultuous relationship with his mother. Issues had reportedly stemmed from Armel’s job as a correctional officer, which he eventually left.

Barry mentioned that the job had created distance between them, and Armel had expressed feeling deprived of the quality time he desired with Joanne during his childhood.

He indicated that a dispute likely occurred before the stabbing, rooted in Armel’s feelings of disrespect toward his mother and her unwillingness to “take care of him” any longer. “He was never a problem kid publicly; he just had conflicts with her, largely due to her work in corrections,” Barry noted. “She was always at work, and he felt neglected.”

Police did not provide further details on the relationship during their updates on Tuesday night.

Barry expressed profound sorrow at the news of Joanne’s death, recalling her as a committed community member who always supported her family. “I can’t comprehend this tragedy,” he shared, tearing up. “We were close from childhood. I will miss her endlessly.” He emphasized that Joanne’s kindness and dedication affected everyone around her, stating, “Anyone who knew her recognized her loving nature.”